By Jean S. HornerThe other day while walking down a corridor
in a public building, I saw what appeared to be someone walking toward
me. On coming closer, I found it was my own reflection in a huge mirror.
For a moment it frightened me. Somehow a full-length reflection of
one’s self is a startling thing. ...

Daily Boost

March 30, 2011 - Baskets

By William E. Richardson

“Be ready for every good work” (Titus 3:1, NKJV).

Baby Moses survived the Nile River, secure in a basket his mother made. The apostle Paul escaped over a wall to safety in a basket. After Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish, the disciples filled 12 baskets with leftovers.

Baskets. Different sizes. All used for God’s glory. Each container, a sign of preparedness. Moses’ mother prepared for her infant son’s survival. Paul’s friends prepared for his safety. Jesus’ disciples, as did Jewish men of their day, remained prepared by carrying a small basket with them.

Like each of these examples, we can stay prepared to help others on a moment’s notice. Not with an actual basket, but by carrying in ours hearts, a constant readiness to extend Jesus’ love to others.

In the basket of your heart, are you ready today to encourage those who need it? Are you prepared to show a God-honoring attitude in every situation? Are you ready for your words (including your prayers) and actions to serve as safety nets for others?

Today will bring surprises, opportunities for you to reach out. You can be prepared in your heart. A prepared heart recognizes some surprises as open doors to help others. It knows some surprises are invitations to let Jesus shine through the things we say and do. A prepared heart sees each unexpected situation as a timely moment to represent Jesus in the lives of others.

When the day began, the disciples didn’t know Jesus would be multiplying the loaves and fish. They were however, prepared to help. After they opened their hearts, Jesus rewarded them by filling their baskets with the leftovers.

Today, in the basket of your heart, will you be ready?

— William E. Richardson is senior pastor of Afton (Iowa) Assembly of God.